Director, Office of Food Systems (DOH/PHD#10118552)

The New Mexico Department of Health, Public Health Division, is a vital state agency dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of all individuals residing within New Mexico. Serving as a central coordinating body, this division oversees a broad spectrum of programming and clinical services that are designed to enhance public health outcomes across the state. With a focus on both preventative and responsive health measures, the department ensures that New Mexico residents receive access to quality health services and education. The Public Health Division is committed to addressing critical health issues, fostering community health collaborations, and promoting policies that protect and advance the health of varied populations throughout the state.

Within this division, the newly established Office of Food Systems plays a pivotal role in advancing food-related initiatives at a statewide level. This innovative team is tasked with driving the implementation of the New Mexico Food Initiative, a strategic program aimed at strengthening the state's food system through coordinated efforts across multiple agencies and partners. The Office of Food Systems focuses on identifying key priorities, overseeing food-related policies and programs, and ensuring the alignment of these efforts with the broader goals of enhancing food access, nutrition security, and economic opportunities related to agriculture and food production.

The role of the Director of the Office of Food Systems is a leadership position responsible for guiding this new and dynamic office. The Director will work extensively with a diverse group of stakeholders, including state agencies, community organizations, policy makers, and agricultural producers to implement and monitor strategic priorities related to the food system. This position demands a strong visionary leader who can develop and execute comprehensive statewide plans that address food access disparities, improve procurement systems, and foster multi-sectoral collaboration. The Director also plays a key role in analyzing state and federal legislation, nutrition, agriculture, and procurement policies to identify opportunities for advancing the state's food goals.

Beyond strategy development, the Director monitors agency and partner program performance, oversees budget utilization for food-related investments, and manages the coordination of food systems activities. Experience in community collaboration, policy advocacy, and project management is essential. This role requires a nuanced understanding of how food systems intersect with public health, economic development, and policy, and requires the ability to engage and influence leadership teams across governmental and non-governmental sectors.

This position is an exciting opportunity for an individual passionate about food equity, nutrition security, and sustainable agricultural practices. By leading New Mexico's Food Initiative, the Director contributes significantly to strengthening local food systems that benefit producers and consumers alike, ultimately supporting the broader mission of improving health outcomes and quality of life for all New Mexicans. This is a full-time governmental position that may involve statewide and occasional out-of-state travel and requires interaction within office settings as well as field engagements.